Think pencil skirts are dated? The controversial style is back for autumn - here's how to wear it

SHOP: How the high street's frumpiest stores became cool again: The 5 brands that have shaken off their dated image - and 20 hero pieces to buyREAD MORE: The must-have colours to wear for autumn, including the hue that makes any outfit look expensive - and the outdated shade to BIN immediatelySee more Daily Mail on Google - save us as a Preferred Source Updated: 02:00 EDT, 3 September 2026 Daily Mail journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission - learn moreOnce considered dated – conjuring up images of women in 80s power suits – the pencil skirt is now back in favour with the fashion pack for AW26.In fact, almost every brand offered up their own take on the style at the recent shows. While some (Magda Butrym, Michael Kors Collection and MM6 Maison Margiela) opted for a classic feel in muted greys and black, others completely transformed the look. Saint Laurent, for example, embraced a more glamorous aesthetic, cutting its pencil skirts from sheer lace and styling them with slinky, lingerie-inspired camis. Elsewhere, Chanel opted for its iconic bouclé fabric to create its take on the trend, and Etro adorned its pencil skirt with multi-coloured feathers. Even on the high street, the style is growing in popularity. Searches for pencil skirts are up 33% on the John Lewis site this August compared to last. Their now-viral red floral take on the trend was so popular that it sold out in just three weeks after its launch in June. 'It came back in stock by popular demand in July and once again has almost completely sold out,' says Carrie Matthews, the brand's Womenswear Buyer. 'It's proven to be the perfect transitional piece that customers are obsessed with as we move from summer into autumn.'The YOU Magazine fashion team are big fans of the trend – it's perfect for modern office dressing, but can easily be glammed up for evening drinks. The only problem is, thanks to its association with the 80s, one wrong styling choice and it can look like you're cosplaying as a banker.Our advice is to stick to loose and effortless styles. Avoid pairing it with anything too corporate (absolutely no fitted blazers or court heels) and keep it feeling modern by embracing some colour – rather than sticking to classic grey palettes. Inspired to try the trend for yourself? Read on for our favourite ways to style a pencil skirt this season.Add leatherEdge up the corporate look by adding some leather pieces. A boxy bomber jacket (like below) is a great option. (Photo by Edward Berthelot/Getty Images)Embrace the 90sDitch the OTT 80s aesthetic in favour of something more pared back and 90s-inspired. A thick knit cashmere cardigan is a great option. Roll up the sleeves and leave a few buttons undone to keep it feeling relaxed rather than corporate. (Photo by Moritz Scholz/Getty Images)Pick a bright colourIf you are going to opt for a more traditional 'pencil skirt and shirt' combo, stick to pieces in bright colours over drab neutrals to ensure the final look is modern and trend-led. (Photo by Raimonda Kulikauskiene/Getty Images)